Whether your entertaining at home, or a house guest somewhere else, a nice wine for the holidays is a must have at any table. If you have a “hostess with the most-est” that you need to gift, what do you bring over? Nothing beats a nice wine and says, “Thank you for sharing this holiday with us”, like some great wines; for great buys of course!

Screen-Shot-2012-09-21-at-4.55.32-PM2Papi Wines are one of my favorite gift giving or weeknight wine picks. These wines are wallet friendly, but don’t skimp on the quality. The Merlot is smooth, sexy, and will absolutely pair with your stuffing, bird, or cranberry chutney. The Sauvignon Blanc is bright, crisp, and clean and is great for you white wine lovers who want something from Chile. Papi also makes a great Cabernet, Pinot Grigio, and Moscato for the table that will certainly wow your guests. The Moscato is perfect to sip while awaiting dinner, and or to go with your Apple Pie or Pumpkin Desserts.

Josh Cellars, from Joseph Carr Winery, in Carneros, CA, makes strikingly beautiful wines at unbelievable buys. The Chardonnay is crisp, bright, and perfect to pair with the Turkey, Potatoes, and or any sides on the table. The Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine lovers delight, as it is smooth, fruit forward, and shows some slight spice. An average of $14.99/bottle, this is a steal and a greeting gift your friends or family will never forget! For an added bonus as well, From Nov. 1st-Dec, 31st, Josh Cellars will donate $1.00, and up to $50,000 to Operation Homefront for every bottle sold! 

Cholame Vineyard “The Beautiful One”, has wines that are from the $20-36.00 range, but are wonderful for your holiday table and make for excellent gifts for your wine loving friends. The Zinfandel is spicy, aromatic, and needs some time to breathe upon opening. The Chardonnay is fruit forward and full of tropical fruit, while the Grenache Blanc, strikes you with pear and apple, and is absolutely beautiful.

Last, but certainly not least, is J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines. J. Lohr is known for producing quality wines that are palate pleasing and wonderful for the table. The Merlot has soft, rich, tannins and bold fruit forward flavors and aromas. I have had several vintages, all of which struck me with quality and style. The Riesling is fruit forward, elegant, and one that you will love for any occasion.

There are certainly dozens more that I can choose for great holiday season wines, and did mention so, for Somm’s Holiday Picks, but these particular wine companies and vineyards have won my heart in one way or another this past season, and ones I had to share with you!